Rosko Specman explains unorthodox career move that shocked rugby

The flamboyant Blitzbokke great Rosko Specman is packing his bags for a new chapter in his career, with the former Springbok set to take on a player-coach role with the Brazilian Cobras.

While Specman is not the only South African joining the Cobras, he stands out as the marquee signing for a franchise targeting a place in the Super Rugby Americas semi-finals.

Specman explained his rationale for joining the franchise as a player-coach.

“I’m in a privileged position where I have achieved almost everything I’ve set out to do in my career,” said Specman.

“I have gained a lot of experience and game knowledge, which I would like to now give back to the game. The role I’ve been offered as player-coach will allow me to do just that.

“It’s going to be great to be still able to play the game, give back to the team and also learn from the coaches and management team. It’s a unique window to transition from playing to coaching. I hope that time here will be one where we all learn from each other and grow together as a team. I’m here to help the team achieve their goals for the season and beyond.”

The Confederação Brasileira de Rugby’s new approach to recruiting foreign players is not the only notable change for the upcoming season, with the union also aiming to build a long-term relationship with South African rugby. Specman believes that connection could be important for Brazil’s development as a rugby nation.

“Like with anything in life, if you want to excel at something, you need to get close to and learn from industry leaders,” explained the newly signed wing.

“Teams that hope to grow in rugby must develop working relationships with bigger unions and rugby giants to learn what’s been done and what they can adapt or create for their own systems for their teams to become competitive on the world stage.

“South Africa has proven itself to be a leading force in the World of rugby.”

Despite his experience, Specman expects Super Rugby Americas to provide a stern test.

“I’m under no impression that the Super Rugby Americas league is an easy one. I think South American rugby has many similarities to South African rugby. And like any pro rugby league, it requires grit and hard work.”

Although his arrival was only announced last week, Specman’s move has been in the pipeline since 2025, with the one-cap former Springbok closely following developments in Brazil during that period.

“Cobras are a vital part of their system. Seeing the team’s progress at the Final Qualification Tournament shows how much it has grown over the years and the team’s determination to perform at the highest level. Spending time with the Cobras will be great to experience Brazil’s rugby culture, to help the boys develop their skills, learn more about the game, and develop their mindsets,” echoed the 36-year-old.

With his move to São Paulo approaching, Specman is relishing the chance to contribute both on and off the field.

“On the field, I want to give my best to enrich the team and grow rugby in São Paulo.”
“Off the field, build good relationships with the players and people, experience the culture and beautiful city, and the rest of South America.”

The sixth season of Super Rugby Americas gets underway in February, with the Cobras travelling to Argentina to face Dogos on the 20th.